Match Report NMJFC U11 Girls vs Altringham FC Juniors U11s Girls Starling 06/12/25

A wet, unsettled day set the stage, with showers drifting in and out, we were also down to only 7 players at the start of the match, down to 5 by half-time, but never phased, the girls met these conditions with grit, determination and purpose. 

Jessica, guarding the net, delivered one of her most assured performances yet. She handled everything that came her way – one thundering shot even thumped off her chest – but she stayed composed, gathered the ball cleanly, and started play from the back with confidence.

Helping her out on the left, Florence held her position superbly. At one point she found herself surrounded by three opponents, yet she muscled through, drove the ball halfway up the pitch, and threaded a pass to Ava with precision. On the opposite side, Martha read the game like a seasoned defender, stepping in for several crucial interceptions and consistently pushing the ball into midfield or beyond, always choosing the right outlet.

In the heart of defence, Poppy D was relentless. She made powerful runs, released sharp passes, and defended with attacking intent – meeting challenges head-on and setting the tone. Millie, working the left side further up the field, refused to give the opposition even a moment’s calm. She pressed quickly, carved out strong runs down the wing, and continually disrupted their rhythm.

Annabella on the right wing matched that energy. She dropped back when needed, slotted into midfield when the game demanded it, and surged forward to support Ava, driving down the line with purpose.

Up front, Ava was simply tireless – a constant threat who never stopped offering herself as an option. She collected the ball deep, changed pace beautifully, and unleashed several dangerous runs, all while keeping defenders on edge.

The breakthrough arrived from a corner swung in by Millie. The ball fell to Annabella, whose shot was saved, but she pounced on the rebound and tucked it away. The second goal came from a coordinated surge between Annabella and Ava – both pressing the keeper until the ball finally spilled into the net. The third followed another decisive move: Millie reached the byline and cut the ball to Annabella, who guided her finish into the bottom-right corner. The fourth goal capped a rampant first half – a one-two exchange between Ava and Millie ended with Millie driving the ball home.

The second half told a very different story. Reduced to just five players, the team faced daunting numbers, yet refused to fold. Jessica continued to impress with brave, clean saves. Florence remained calm under pressure, stepping in firmly and pushing the ball forward whenever she could. Martha stood strong beside her, reading play impeccably and coolly shutting down opposition moves before they gathered speed.

Millie dropped into a central role and ran tirelessly, even after absorbing a heavy tackle. Her determination never wavered – she covered ground end-to-end, helping in defence and sparking attacks. Ava, still full of energy, battled up front to keep the team on the offensive. Several corners from Millie and Ava created real chances, but the opposition keeper met them all.

Player of the Week went to Ava – fully deserved. Her first half alone showed sharp link-up play, non-stop running, and persistent attacking drive. But what truly stood out was her leadership: her voice guided the team throughout, organising teammates and keeping everyone focused.

Despite a game that nearly didn’t happen due to absences, every girl stepped onto the pitch with heart, resolve, and sheer determination. They were outnumbered, under pressure, and still rose to the moment. An outstanding effort from all. Well done girls!

⚽️🖤💛⚽️

#upthemillers